Following Independence in 1947, the undivided district of Dinajpur underwent a historic transformation. A major portion became part of East Pakistan, now Bangladesh, while the remaining Indian territory was known as West Dinajpur. Subsequent administrative realignments gradually reshaped the region, culminating on 1 April 1992 with the bifurcation of West Dinajpur into two separate districts—Uttar Dinajpur and Dakshin Dinajpur. Though administratively divided, the shared history, cultural roots, and emotional bonds between the two districts remained deeply intertwined.

For decades, Dakshin Dinajpur remained geographically and infrastructurally isolated. The absence of railway connectivity until 30 December 2004 reinforced its sense of remoteness. Agriculture formed the backbone of the local economy, while industrial growth was minimal and employment opportunities limited. Access to mass media was scarce—radio served as the primary source of information, newspapers often arrived a day late, and television signals were weak or altogether unavailable. Yet, even amid these constraints, the spirit of journalism slowly took root, driven by individuals committed to truth, awareness, and public service. It was within this context that the need for unity, identity, and professional solidarity among reporters became increasingly evident. That aspiration found concrete expression in 1977, when a small but determined group of reporters came together to establish the West Dinajpur District Press Club. The founding leadership reflected the district’s proud legacy of the freedom struggle. The club’s founding President was the revered freedom fighter Radhamohan Mahanto, whose life of courage, integrity, and compassion inspired generations. Pijush Kanti Deb, the eldest son of freedom fighter Prafulla Deb, became the founding Secretary, symbolizing the seamless continuation of patriotic values into the field of journalism. Alongside them stood several committed journalists who laid a strong foundation rooted in truth, integrity, accountability, and public service.

As membership steadily increased, the Press Club evolved into a vibrant hub of debate, reporting, and social engagement. It became a common platform where reporters could exchange ideas, address professional challenges, and collectively uphold ethical standards. Following the district’s bifurcation in 1992, the organization adopted its present name—the Dakshin Dinajpur District Press Club—while consciously preserving the heritage and inclusive spirit of undivided West Dinajpur.

Despite its growing influence, the club functioned for many years without a permanent home. Meetings were held in small newspaper offices, printing presses, and temporary spaces, reflecting both limitation and determination. Several attempts to secure land and build a permanent office faced setbacks. However, the members’ perseverance finally bore fruit when the abandoned Balurghat Old Jail premises were leased to the club. This landmark achievement was made possible through the support of Late Biswanath Choudhury, then Minister-in-Charge of Jails and Social Welfare, along with the Balurghat Municipality and district administration. With financial assistance under the NBDD , the long-cherished Press Club building was inaugurated in 2008. For reporters of the district, the building symbolized far more than bricks and mortar—it embodied decades of struggle, unity, and collective resolve.

Over time, the Dakshin Dinajpur District Press Club expanded in both strength and stature. Reporters representing print, television, and digital media joined from across the district, reinforcing its role as a comprehensive professional body. Its cultural and social footprint also deepened significantly. Events such as Barshavaran celebrations, literary gatherings, sports meets, and community service initiatives transformed the club into a dynamic cultural institution. Eminent leaders, administrators, and public figures offered guidance and encouragement, further strengthening its credibility and reach.

Guided by a strong sense of social and cultural responsibility, the Press Club has consistently extended its activities far beyond journalism. Club members have contributed to the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund to help the Cyclone victims in Orissa, standing beside the state during times of crisis. The club has organized intellectually enriching seminars, including discussions on the district’s ancient heritage at Balurghat Natyamandir, and a landmark seminar at Bangar, Gangarampur, titled “Harappa–Mohenjo-daro in the Light of a Century.” Every year, the club celebrates Rakhi Bandhan across the district, promoting social harmony and emotional bonds.

The establishment of a well-equipped auditorium within the Press Club premises marked another milestone. The auditorium now serves as a lively venue for cultural performances, book launches, and intellectual discussions. The club also observes International Mother Language Day annually, bringing together culturally conscious citizens to celebrate and preserve the Bengali language. Sports and youth engagement have remained integral to the club’s vision. Friendly football and cricket matches are regularly organized with the police , administration and Uttarbango Krishi Viswavidyalaya, fostering goodwill and sportsmanship. In a significant step toward women’s empowerment, the Press Club has hosted district-level women’s football tournaments throughout the district , encouraging participation and confidence among young women.

Professional development has always been a priority. The club conducts regular workshops for reporters , focusing on ethics, reporting skills, and emerging trends in media. Upholding Balurghat’s reputation as a “city of theatre,” the Press Club has hosted a National Theatre Festival at Rabindra Bhavan, featuring nine theatre groups from six states. To address critical healthcare needs, it also organizes regular blood donation camps, helping to ease blood shortages in the district.

The club’s vision has extended beyond national boundaries as well. In a remarkable gesture of cross-border friendship, it organized friendly football matches in Bangladesh in collaboration with the Hakimpur Press Club, strengthening people-to-people ties. The Press Club respectfully observes the birth anniversaries of eminent personalities and made history by publishing the district’s first Telephone Directory. Seminars marking Press Freedom Day underscore its commitment to democratic values and freedom of expression.

In a pioneering cultural initiative, the Dakshin Dinajpur District Press Club became the first in the state to elevate New Year (Barshavaran) celebrations by hosting nationally renowned artists such as Binod Rathore, Tithi Deb Barman, Kunal Ganjawala, and Kailash Kher. For Barshavaran 2026, performances by artists associated with Sachet–Parampara are performing , reflecting the club’s continued cultural ambition. Additionally, the club has established a Readers’ Corner and preserves little magazines, nurturing reading habits and alternative literary voices. Over the years, the club’s initiatives have received support from several eminent personalities. In earlier times, events like Bijoya Sammilani were supported by the late Biswanath Choudhury. In recent years MP and Union Minister Dr. Sukanta Majumdar, have extended consistent encouragement and assistance to the club’s flagship cultural programs. Today, as the Dakshin Dinajpur District Press Club approaches its Golden Jubilee, it celebrates not merely fifty years of existence but a rich legacy of resilience, unity, and service. Rooted in the shared history of undivided West Dinajpur, the jubilee brings together both Uttar and Dakshin Dinajpur in collective pride. A year-long celebration from January to December 2026 is planned, featuring seminars, cultural programs, exhibitions,medical camps, social campaigns, and sporting events. More than a professional organization, the Dakshin Dinajpur District Press Club stands as a family, a heritage, and a bridge between communities—honoring its past with gratitude and embracing the future with confidence, commitment, and hope. Dakshin Dinajpur District Press Club stands as a proud legacy of journalism, culture, and social commitment, rooted in history and driven by service to society.